Pousa, son of Sólyom facts for kids

Pousa, son of Sólyom (Hungarian: Sólyom fia Pósa) was an important Hungarian nobleman who lived a long time ago. He served as a leader called the voivode of Transylvania two times. His first time was in 1227, and his second time was from 1235 until 1241. He sadly died in a big battle on March 31, 1241.

Early Career and Royal Service

Pousa started his career helping the king. In 1225, he was the ispán (a kind of county governor) of Vas County. This was during the time of King Andrew II.

Supporting Prince Béla

Pousa was a loyal supporter of the king's son, Prince Béla. Prince Béla became the Duke of Transylvania in 1226. This happened after some disagreements between the king and his son were settled. Prince Béla sometimes made his own decisions, separate from his father. For example, he gave tax breaks to knights in Transylvania in 1231. He also gave away lands in Wallachia in 1233. Pousa worked closely with Prince Béla. In 1225, he was Béla's master of the treasury. This meant he managed the prince's money.

First Term as Voivode

In 1227, Pousa was chosen to be the voivode of Transylvania for the first time. A voivode was a high-ranking official who governed a large territory. Some historians believe he held this job for a few years, but records only clearly show him as voivode in 1227. Between 1229 and 1233, Pousa also served as the master of the horse for Duke Béla. This was another important job, in charge of the duke's horses and stables.

Second Term and the Mongol Invasion

When Prince Béla became King Béla IV in 1235, Pousa was again appointed as the voivode of Transylvania. This was his second time in this important role.

Fighting the Mongols

In 1241, Transylvania faced a huge and dangerous threat: the Mongol invasion of Europe. A Mongol leader named Güyük Khan led his army into Transylvania through the Oituz Pass in March. Voivode Pousa bravely led his royal army to fight against them. The battle took place near a place called Burzenland (Hungarian: Barcaság).

Pousa's Final Battle

Sadly, Pousa fell in battle on March 31, 1241, while fighting the Mongols. He died defending his land and people. After this battle, the Mongols continued their invasion deeper into the Kingdom of Hungary. Pousa is remembered for his loyalty and courage in the face of this terrible invasion.